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Johann Wilhelm von KrauseneckField Marshal, Chief of the General Staff of the Prussian Army
Date of Birth: 13.10.1774
Country:  Germany |
Content:
- Early Life and Military Career
- Napoleonic Wars
- Post-Napoleonic Era
- Chief of the General Staff
- Retirement and Death
Early Life and Military Career
Born on October 13, 1774, in Bayreuth, Karl von Krauseneck entered military service in 1791 at the artillery garrison of the Plassenburg fortress. Demonstrating a natural aptitude for mathematics and drawing, he was assigned to assist cartographer Johann Christoph Stirlöin with topographic surveys.
During the First Coalition War, Krauseneck served as a topographer on the staff of Friedrich Ludwig zu Hohenlohe-Ingelfingen. His contributions earned him a promotion to lieutenant in the artillery. In 1803, he attained the rank of staff captain.
Napoleonic Wars
Krauseneck distinguished himself in the 1806-1807 campaign against the French at the Battle of Preußisch Eylau. For his bravery, he was awarded the Order of Pour le Mérite. In 1808, he was promoted to major and assigned to the 3rd East Prussian Infantry Regiment. The following year, he commanded a battalion of fusiliers in the Potsdam Guard Infantry Regiment.
In 1812, Krauseneck became commandant of the Graudenz fortress. When hostilities resumed against France in 1813, he joined Blücher's corps staff and participated in numerous battles.
Post-Napoleonic Era
In 1814, Krauseneck was appointed commandant of the Mainz fortress. However, he resigned at the end of the year. Instead, he was promoted to major general and awarded the Order of the Red Eagle. During the Hundred Days campaign, he commanded the 10th Infantry Brigade, earning accolades at the Battle of Wavre.
Chief of the General Staff
In 1829, Krauseneck was appointed chief of the General Staff of the Prussian army. In this role, he focused on advancing military topography, astronomical research, and the army's telegraph system. In 1837, he became a member of the Prussian State Council and was awarded the Order of the Black Eagle in 1840.
Retirement and Death
Krauseneck retired on May 1, 1848, and passed away on November 2, 1850, in Berlin. Among his numerous awards, he held the Russian Order of St. Alexander Nevsky, bestowed upon him by Emperor Nicholas I in 1835.
